Limited vacancy in the grow house

First batch of seedlings have mostly germinated and are ready to move out of the house!

In general I planted lots of extra seeds and thinned them out to extra plants as well. I intend to plant 1-2 of each probably, but it’s always good to have a few backups. I’d like to thin out the remaining seedlings as well but have a space issue.

Tomatoes- I transplanted 4 of each, for now, because that’s what I have space for. I’ll keep the ones in the plug tray going a bit longer and see if I can find homes for them. Tomatoes were planted as deep as possible up to their little leaves to maximize root development along the stem. I used taller clear takeout cups for many so that I can continue to bury more stem as they grow.

Brassicas- I dunno, I didn’t really have a plan for these in my garden but they’re cooler weather crops so they seemed like something I could transplant a little earlier than the rest. Plus I think they all looks pretty cool. I’ve got cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. Although they look pretty different as adults, it’s clear from the seedlings that these guys are related! Very cool.

Peppers- the peppers are the slowest to germinate and develop roots, and grow, so I’ve got them thinned out into space-efficient square pots where they’ll likely live until transplanted outside. I’m growing biquinho and poblano, may also start some shishitos because I got some free seeds.

Obviously I’m about to have a crowded grow house, again, and the tomatoes and peppers are going to be long-term guests. I will soon face a decision about expanding the grow house to another shelf or two and adding more lights.

This really makes me want a greenhouse. In a month or so when temps are better I may explore mini yard greenhouse options, even if it’s just putting things out in clear plastic totes.

Juneau walks: Mendenhall glacier rec area

Part of the reason I chose to live where I did is the access to trials for biking and walking, so I’m trying them out!

Today’s post-work walk took me to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area- a labyrinth of trails that weave through Mendenhall River area just downstream of the glacier. There are many route options.

It ‘s the map!

Today I basically stuck to the west trail segments and did Back Loop Bridge, Dike Trail, and part of River trail.

It was beautiful, relatively flat and traversable (with a few low trees and obstacles), and I only ran into about 5 people (weirdly all at once, on bikes, heading in different directions).

Mendenhall River with the glacier in the background

This way to adventure

Moose Lake

Moose Lake

Glacier casually peeking through…

I found several spots to stop and take in the views. My final spot was on Moose Lake where I sat and threw rocks into the glassy calm water and watched the ripples disappear.

This route did not disappoint. The perfect weather and lighting didn’t hurt. I’m excited to explore more of the routes!